Author Archives: Levi Burner

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This underwater ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) by SpaceShipOne is sure to impress. It features four thrusters, remote control, and most importantly for this site, a camera.

For your average DIY person an ROV is a great project. They aren’t too difficult to make, they are easily customized, and they can be used to accomplish cool things. In the case of this underwater ROV you could use it to explore depths in detail that you couldn’t before. For instance, a small cave where diving is not safe.

The camera system below is simple, but should get the job done. Check it out in the pictures below!

Ever wonder what goes into making a modern digital camera? Check out the OTTO, an open source, homegrown camera that allows for extensive customization of both the hardware and software.

Previously, DIY Tripods featured a different open source camera, however, it was analog, using traditional film to capture and store images. The OTTO attacks the problem from a differently, using the Raspberry Pi (also open source) to take digital pictures. This gives end users a lot more options. Users can post-process images, automatically adjust shutter speeds, take timed photo sequences, or anything else one can program the ‘Pi to do.

One of the coolest features of the OTTO is its ability to make animated gifs. As seen in the video below, Continue reading →

Today’s build features a Lego follow focus with coarse and fine modes of adjustment. It can be fitted to many camera lenses, and, since it’s made out of Lego parts, can be easily customized. The thing that stands out about this was the build quality.

From the pictures, we can see that all the joints between the Lego blocks are reinforced. Additionally, joints between sides use axles and axle housings instead of a traditional Lego joints. This means it won’t fall apart in your hands and can probably be carried around in a camera bag without consequences. Check out the videos after the break to see how well the follow focus works and how to build it!